United States
Day trips in San Francisco
Full-day excursions to the places worth leaving the city for. San Francisco is compact, hilly and surrounded on three sides by water, which makes it a city of short trips: a bike ride over the Golden Gate Bridge, a ferry to Alcatraz, a cable car up Nob Hill, dim sum in Chinatown and burritos in the Mission.
Best day trips in San Francisco
Free cancellation on most experiences. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What to expect
Day trips usually run 8 to 12 hours with transport and guide, sometimes lunch and entries. Departure points are central; hotel pickup costs more.
Popular day trips from San Francisco: Napa Valley, Sonoma, Muir Woods and Sausalito and Monterey and Carmel.
How to choose
- What is included: entries, lunch, guide on site
- Time actually spent at destination vs on the road
- Group size on the bus
- Free cancellation in case of weather
Local tips
- Compare what is included before comparing prices: entries and lunch change the real cost.
- Alcatraz tickets are sold only through Alcatraz City Cruises from Pier 33 and often sell out weeks ahead in summer; the night tour is the hardest to get.
- Muir Woods requires a parking or shuttle reservation in advance, which a guided tour includes.
Combine it with: Alcatraz Island tour, Golden Gate Bridge bike ride to Sausalito and Napa Valley or Sonoma wine tour.
Frequently asked questions
How long do day trips in San Francisco last?
Day trips usually run 8 to 12 hours with transport and guide, sometimes lunch and entries. Departure points are central; hotel pickup costs more.
What is the best way to book day trips in San Francisco?
Compare what is included before comparing prices: entries and lunch change the real cost. Alcatraz tickets are sold only through Alcatraz City Cruises from Pier 33 and often sell out weeks ahead in summer; the night tour is the hardest to get.
Can I cancel day trips in San Francisco?
Most experiences listed here offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Check the conditions on the booking page before paying.
When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
September and October are the warmest, clearest months. Summer is often cool and foggy, especially near the Golden Gate, and winter brings most of the year's rain; pack layers in any season.